2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, traditionally not known for its style. With an SUV-like appearance, the Sienna featured a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays, giving it a modern look. The side profile was assertive, with re-engineered sliding doors that added a sculpted body line, enhancing its visual appeal. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches complemented the design, while the rear maintained a wide and low stance. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was practical, with ample storage and a smart tray for personal items. The second and third rows provided comfort and flexibility, with sliding seats for maximum utility.

The 2021 Lexus NX retained the brand's signature design, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to its siblings, the UX and RX. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport models offered a sporty appearance, with features like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the NX boasted quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport, with options for various color schemes. The interior materials were of high quality, with a familiar gauge cluster and a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the center stack design appeared dated, with a CD player and elevated climate-control buttons. Despite this, the NX provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, with a G-Force meter adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The hybrid system delivered impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg in the city, highway, and combined, while AWD models were rated at 35/36/35 mpg. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, providing a comfortable ride with minimal body roll.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with Active Sound Control enhancing the engine note electronically. Both FWD and AWD were available, with the AWD system capable of transferring up to 50% of torque to the rear axle. Fuel economy was decent, with FWD models achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while AWD models had a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX offered an adaptive-suspension system for a refined driving experience, though steering feedback was limited.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that folded into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating easy access to the third row. The cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo space measured 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101.0 cubic feet behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate with kick sensors added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Lexus NX offered a comfortable and upscale interior, with spacious front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats featured a 60/40 split-folding design. While engine noise was present, road and wind noise were minimal, maintaining the typical Lexus quietness. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded, making it one of the smallest in its class. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available, along with power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect trials. Bluetooth, Qi-compatible charging, and a 1500-watt inverter were available. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was optional. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and a 10-inch Head-Up Display in Platinum trims. Remote keyless entry and a Smart Key System were standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package, which included predictive traffic information and fuel station guidance. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Premium Audio system was standard, with a Mark Levinson 14-speaker system available. The NX was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, offering remote engine start, climate control, and vehicle-finder functions. Lexus Enform Services Connect provided maintenance alerts and a 10-year subscription.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System included enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Sienna had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring were standard. While 2021 crash-test ratings were pending, the 2020 model received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus NX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with park assist and adaptive headlights optional. Lexus Enform Safety Connect offered emergency assistance and collision notification. The NX received top "Good" scores from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It came with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.